Rishi Sunak says UK stands by Israel’s right to defend itself six-months after terror attack
The PM says Israelis and Palestinians all deserve to live in peace, dignity and security
PM Rishi Sunak has said the UK stands by Israel’s right to defend itself as he marked the six-month anniversary today of the October 7 Hamas terror attack.
More than 1,100 people were killed and 130 are still being held hostage.
Mr Sunak called for their release and for the “terrible conflict” to end, adding: “The whole of the UK is shocked by the bloodshed.”
He spoke of his hope for a long-term, sustainable ceasefire.
The PM added: “For the good of both Israelis and Palestinians — who all deserve to live in peace, dignity and security — that is what we will keep working to achieve.”
The Royal Navy is to be drafted in to transport aid to the near-starving thousands in Gaza — with David Cameron warning of famine in the war-torn region.
The Foreign Secretary announced a £9.7million package of military and civilian support to set up a maritime corridor to the Strip from Cyprus, beginning early next month.
Israel’s military said yesterday it had recovered the body of a 47-year-old farmer held hostage in Gaza.
Elad Katzir was believed to have been killed in January by Islamic Jihad, one of the groups that raided southern Israel on October 7.
The discovery renewed pressure on Israel’s government as talks were due to begin today over a ceasefire and securing the release of hostages.
Of about 250 snatched, half have been freed and 36 are dead. Hamas said it will free 40 more in a deal including a ceasefire, aid, prisoner release and return of displaced people.